We’re looking forward to introducing you to Derrick J. Wilson. Check out our conversation below.
Derrick J., a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Something outside of work that’s bringing me a tremendous amount of joy lately is watching my family grow, evolve, and really step into their own. My son recently graduated high school and is navigating life with a level of curiosity and drive that makes me proud. He’s diving into training, learning the business, and genuinely wanting to be part of the industry. Being able to work side-by-side with him at times has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had.
My daughter is thriving as she prepares to transition into high school, and it’s been incredible to watch her mature, find her voice, and begin shaping the world around her. My wife continues to accelerate in her career, and seeing her growth inspires me daily. Even my mom and extended family are in seasons of strength and momentum.
Honestly, just witnessing the people I love step into new chapters and win in their own ways has been the greatest source of joy for me.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Derrick J. Wilson, and I serve as the Managing Member of Guardian Restoration Group of Georgia LLC, a mitigation and reconstruction firm dedicated to bringing property and peace of mind back to families and businesses after water, fire, mold, or storm events. With more than a decade of experience as a licensed insurance adjuster, I bring a unique, dual-perspective approach to every loss—bridging the gap between policyholders, contractors, and carriers to drive clarity, efficiency, and fair outcomes.
What makes Guardian special is the way we show up for people when they’re at their most vulnerable. We combine technical expertise with a service-first mindset, ensuring every client feels informed, supported, and genuinely cared for throughout the recovery process. That passion for problem-solving and human connection has shaped my entire career.
Outside of the business, I also serve as President & CEO of the Greater Eastside Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Eastside Alliance. My volunteer and community-development work keeps me grounded and reminds me why strengthening families, businesses, and neighborhoods matters so much.
Right now, I’m focused on expanding Guardian Restoration Group’s footprint, deepening partnerships with agents, adjusters, and property managers, and continuing to build a company that stands out for its integrity, responsiveness, and compassion.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
The person who saw me clearly before I ever truly saw myself was my 7th-grade Texas History teacher, Mr. Michael Pelton. He was the first person outside of my family who recognized potential in me that I didn’t yet understand. Mr. Pelton set the bar high—not just academically, but in character, discipline, and ambition.
He modeled what it meant to be an excellent educator, businessman, husband, and father. His example pushed me to expect more of myself, and his encouragement sparked a level of confidence and drive that shaped the direction of my life and career.
What makes his influence even more meaningful is that our connection didn’t end in the classroom. Over the years, he became like a big brother, a mentor, and a constant stabilizing voice. Our families still stay in touch, and the respect and gratitude I have for him run deep.
To this day, I credit a significant part of who I am—and the path I’ve taken—to his belief in me. He saw strengths and leadership traits in me long before I could recognize them, and that gift changed everything.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me lessons that success never could. It taught me perseverance, determination, and the discipline to stay committed even when the path feels unfair or uncertain. I’ve experienced what it feels like to pour time, energy, and heart into something I didn’t own—only to end up flat on my back, unappreciated, and dismissed. Those moments were painful, but they were also transformational.
That hardship forced me to grow into a better leader and, honestly, a better human being. It showed me the value of integrity, appreciation, and creating environments where people can thrive rather than feel expendable. It taught me to build spaces—especially within my own business—where people feel seen, supported, and respected.
Suffering gave me a clarity that success alone never would: the clarity to build something different, something healthier, and something grounded in the kind of culture I once needed myself.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A cultural value I protect at all costs is integrity. To me, integrity isn’t just a principle — it’s the foundation of trust, credibility, and long-term impact. I’ve learned through both success and hardship that talent can take you far, but integrity determines whether you stay there. It dictates how you treat people when no one is watching, how you show up when things get tough, and how you honor commitments even when it’s inconvenient.
In my personal life, in my leadership roles, and especially within Guardian Restoration Group of Georgia, integrity anchors everything. We’re often serving people at their lowest moments, and in those moments, cutting corners or compromising values isn’t an option. People need honesty, transparency, and consistency. They need to feel confident that the team standing in their home or business is guided by a moral compass — not just by a paycheck.
Protecting integrity means creating environments where truth is valued, accountability is expected, and appreciation is genuine. It means doing the right thing even when it costs you, because the real cost comes when you don’t.
Integrity builds culture, culture builds trust, and trust builds legacy. And that’s something worth protecting at all costs.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes — I can give everything my best, even if no one ever praises me for it. I live by the belief that my effort, my character, and my consistency are ultimately accountable to a higher power. That mindset frees me from chasing applause and allows me to focus on doing what’s right, not what’s popular.
I’ve learned that real legacy isn’t built on public recognition; it’s built on the quiet, unseen moments when you choose excellence simply because it reflects who you are. I give my all because it’s my responsibility, my calling, and my way of honoring the faith that guides me. My reward isn’t in the praise of people — it’s in knowing that I served with integrity, purpose, and heart.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.guardianfmi.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/derrickjwilson_
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guardianrestorationgroupga/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/guardianrestorationgroupga
